WVU Extension Service is working to reduce the number of diabetes patients in the state and enhance overall health through its Dining with Diabetes program. Diabetes is one of the leading chronic illnesses in West Virginia, and according to the West Virginia Department of Health & Human Resources, one in eight West Virginians have been diagnosed with diabetes.
In partnership with the WVU Office of the Provost and in support of the University’s interest in offering additional health and wellness programming for faculty and staff, the four-week program will be offered virtually starting in May exclusively for WVU faculty and staff. The program will focus on nutrition education, cooking demonstrations, healthy recipes and physical activity.
The classes are free and open to faculty and staff who have been diagnosed as diabetic/pre-diabetic, family members, caregivers and others who are interested in learning more about creating a healthy lifestyle. Each participant will receive educational materials and healthy recipes they can make at home.
“Diabetes is so prevalent in our state and around the nation,” said Gwen Crum, WVU Extension Service Family and Community Development agent. “Through this program, we hope to give people the tools and resources they need to address health issues and build a healthier lifestyle. We launched our first cohort in March and had an overwhelming response, so we know this program is important to our fellow West Virginians.”
The WVU faculty and staff Dining with Diabetes program will be offered May 19, 26, June 2 and 9 from 4 to 6 p.m. Participants interested in the program should register online by May 12. Registration will be limited to 40 participants.
For more information, contact David Roberts, WVU Extension agent, at David.Roberts@mail.wvu.edu.